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For much of the country, the Midwest might not be the first region that comes to mind when you think of romantic getaways. However, the north-central states have their fair share of couple's retreats that set the mood and allow you to savor your significant other's company. From Michigan and Minnesota to Indiana and Illinois, choose from a number of intimate escapes where you can enjoy alluring accommodations, soak in scenic natural surroundings and make some magical Midwest memories.

Heartland Hideaways

At The Inn at Irish Hollow -- set on a 500-acre country estate in historic Galena, Illinois -- the circa-1880s French Maid's Cottage has its own garden, a double whirlpool bath, two-sided fireplace and hand-forged iron king bed. A two-night cottage package includes a country-style breakfast, candlelight dinner, champagne and chocolates, with optional enhancements such as flowers and spa treatments. Stroll hand in hand along trails that wind among pastures, forests and wildflowers. The Inn at Irwin Gardens, a 19th-century Edwardian mansion divided into five luxurious suites and large corner rooms, is set on a 2-acre estate in Columbus, Indiana, that includes exquisite Italianate gardens with plenty of secluded spots. The inn will arrange for roses, champagne, chocolate-dipped strawberries and a couple's massage. Tour nearby wineries and the historic architecture of downtown Columbus, then eat dinner at one of several romantic restaurants within walking distance.

Northern Nights

The Belvedere Inn in Saugatuck, Michigan -- nestled near the shores of Lake Michigan and the Kalamazoo River -- bills itself as a "Mini-Versailles." With the European cuisine at the Belvedere Restaurant, 5 acres of manicured grounds and 10 elegantly furnished guest rooms -- all with fireplaces and some with whirlpools -- it's hard to argue. All stays include a four-course dinner, and a lover's package adds wine and cheese, flowers and two full-body massages. The romantic ambiance at the Rivertown Inn -- set near the St. Croix River in Stillwater, Minnesota -- features stained-glass windows, 10 fireplaces with Victorian-style mantels, crystal chandeliers and parquet floors. The inn's William Shakespeare package includes roses, chocolates, champagne, custom-engraved champagne flutes and a keepsake love poem by the famed bard. The inn offers cooking classes, picnic baskets and bike, kayak or snowshoe tours, depending on the season.

Buckeye Bliss

Gervasi Vineyard's 55 acres in Canton, Ohio, includes sprawling vineyards and Tuscan-style villas with stone fireplaces, dark wood beams and luxury linens. Enhancements include flowers, an array of wines, chocolate-dipped strawberries and Italian antipasti platters. Tour the winery, relax at the tasting bar, take a cooking class and schedule an in-room couple's massage or yoga session. Then cap things off with a romantic dinner at the on-site bistro set in a circa-1823 barn. The Inn & Spa at Cedar Falls in Logan is set amid the natural splendor of central Ohio's Hocking Hills, known for its scenic waterfalls, woodlands and caves. Overnight options include log cabins or secluded cottages with two-person whirlpool tubs, gas log stoves and private decks. The inn's Sweetheart Package includes flowers, champagne or wine, chocolates and silk rose petals. Add on a couple's photo session, set amid the beauty of the inn's garden or Cedar Falls.

Wisconsin Wonders

Canoe Bay -- a 300-acre country estate set along three spring-fed lakes near Chetek in northwest Wisconsin -- is designed for couples, with no children allowed. Cozy lodge rooms and cottages include king beds, two-person hot tubs and private decks with lake views, with some cottages also featuring private saunas. The inn's romance package includes a half bottle of sparkling wine, flowers, a romantic dinner and full breakfast in bed. Take a hike, stroll among the garden and fruit trees, or paddle the lake in a canoe for two. At Sundara Inn and Spa, nestled in a 26-acre pine forest in the Wisconsin Dells, choose from several couple's packages. Among the options: a signature massage for two, keepsake aromatherapy candles, cashmere spa robes and an indoor picnic with appetizers, finger foods, chocolates and wine -- all set up in front of the fireplace in your king featherbed suite.

About the Author

Robert Kay has written travel articles since 2002 and has more than 20 years of experience at three daily newspapers and a national magazine. His work has appeared in "Golfweek," "The New York Times" and various AAA publications. Now based in Florida, he holds a journalism degree from the University of South Carolina.

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